When Chelsea Robato moved from Guam to the Philippines five years ago, she never thought her face would be plastered on packaging and ad campaigns. She was discovered serendipitously when she went to see Patrick Rosas, who introduced her to all the right people.
Rosas—who also did Chelsea’s mom’s makeup—was struck by Chelsea’s porcelain face and doll-like features.
Now the model is a blogger and entrepreneur (she sells a line called Explorer Bags). Though she spends a lot of time under harsh lights and heavy makeup, she’s managed to keep an incredibly fine complexion.
Her secret? A healthy diet and plenty of vacations.
What does every model take with her to a casting call?
Heels, portfolio, set card, makeup and touch-up.
How were you discovered?
Patrick Rosas did my makeup for an event. From there, he introduced me to directors and agencies.
What’s a beauty trick you’ve learned from working with makeup artists?
Contour and strobing the right places make a huge difference! For a natural look, the importance of blending.
What are your five beauty essentials?
MAC Strobe Cream, Get Leid eyebrow powder, Bskin day moisturizer, Too Faced Chocolate Contour, Happy Skin Second Skin foundation.
Fave beauty hack?
Strobing and highlighting!
Since commercial shoots tend to be long, and editorial shoots require plenty of makeup changes, they take a toll on your skin. How do you keep yours looking so good?
Face masks galore, especially the day before and after work! I use the Korean beauty routine of face wash, tone, serum, face mask primer (Origins), face mask, then night cream. Currently, I’m using Bskin for skin brightening.
Take us through your morning beauty regimen.
1) Facial wash
2) Toner
3) Serum
4) Moisturizer
5) BB cream
6) Sunblock
You have a holistic approach to beauty. You juice, you make carb-free pancakes. What led you to this lifestyle?
When I started modeling, I would break out and had terrible dieting habits. As I got older, things I used to do didn’t cut it anymore. I had to find a healthier lifestyle for food and exercise.
My boyfriend is a huge influence. We either eat healthy or pig out together, but he always reminds me to go to the gym.
I hated breaking out after a fashion show or from long hours of makeup, so I started going to the derma for treatment. Afterward, things improved with a skincare routine. I found products that are beneficial, so I don’t have to go to the derma so often.
What else do you do to stay healthy?
Take vacations! Stress is one of the most unhealthy feelings and pressures. I like to take vacations to relax, let my skin breathe and recharge.
As a shopper, do you like to hunt for bargains or do you like the luxury shops?
I go to luxury shops and look for bargains. A good outfit isn’t just all expensive items or all cheap items. You can wear a cheaper dress and make it look expensive with the right accessories.
What are your go-to shops?
Forever 21 for fast-fashion pieces, or BCBG. Hermès, Valentino and Prada for more key investment pieces.
How would you define your style?
Bipolar! One day I’ll walk around in sweats, another day all black, or really girly.
Whose model style do you admire?
Ria Bolivar, because she’s always dressed. She can make anything look good!